Our Sanctuary: The "Saint Demetrios Community" Story

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Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Community of Hamilton and District traces its origins to the post-World War II era when a small group of Greek families, led by the visionaries Theodore Lefterys, James Peters, Nick Elmasiadis, Nick Mouriopoulos and Lefterys Simeonidis, sought to establish a place of worship in the Hamilton community. In 1953, their dream began to materialize with the acquisition of the former Beth Jacob Synagogue on Park and Hunter Streets. This building, which they converted into their first church, held within its walls a hidden history, as the removal of the Star of David during renovations revealed its earlier identity as the St. James Reformed Episcopal Church.

The fledgling congregation's aspirations faced a significant challenge when the city announced plans to expropriate their property for the construction of the new Hamilton City Hall. Despite considerable controversy, the congregation reluctantly accepted the city's offer of $95,000 for the property in August 1957. With resolve, they decided to use the funds to build a new church to accommodate their growing community, which by then comprised around 300 families, including members from as far away as Burlington, Caledonia, Galt, Niagara Falls Kitchener, Owen Sound, Brantford and St. Catharine's.

A stroke of luck came in the spring of 1958 when the Strathcona Lawn Bowling Club relocated its operations, making way for a new opportunity. The Hellenic Community purchased the property on 22 Head Street, and construction of the new sanctuary commenced immediately. On June 14, 1959, the fruits of their labor were realized as the newly erected church was officially opened and consecrated by Bishop Polyeuctus of Tropaion (Archdiocesan Vicar of Pittsburgh). The dedication ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including Mayor Lloyd Jackson, who commended the Hellenic Community for their commitment to both their cultural heritage and their new home in Canada.

As our congregation continued to grow, so did its aspirations. In 1973, our church underwent expansion to serve not only as a place of worship but also as the Greek Educational Centre in Hamilton. This expansion project, funded in part by a $34,000 grant from the Federal Government’s Local Initiatives Program, demonstrated the Community's dedication to preserving and promoting Hellenic traditions and heritage.

In a significant development in July 1989, the Hellenic Community of Hamilton and District, acquired the nearby Strathcona Fire Hall. Through tireless fundraising efforts, we facilitated the restoration of this historic building, with plans to integrate it into a larger project that included a seniors' housing complex. This acquisition not only expanded the Community's physical footprint but also reinforced its commitment to serving the broader area and ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations.

Today, Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Community of Hamilton and District stands as a testament to the resilience, faith, and fratrernal spirit of its founders and members. From its humble beginnings in a repurposed synagogue to its present-day role as a vibrant center of Greek Orthodox worship and Hellenic Cultural celebration, our Community's history is a remarkable journey of perseverance and dedication to preserving our heritage while embracing the Canadian way of life.